Smoking is a major public health issue that requires action, and libertarians are on the losing side of arguments regarding the merits of restricting it. The science behind the need for smoking restrictions is supported by common sense and public opinion, with compulsory seat belts in cars and helmets for motorcyclists now widely accepted.

The link between smoking and cancer was established as far back as 1950 by Oxford epidemiologist Richard Doll, who promptly quit smoking himself. Despite efforts by tobacco companies to hide the truth, no one with scientific credibility has disputed Doll’s findings. Statistics show that two out of three people who continue to smoke will die prematurely, and smoking is responsible for nine out of 10 cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The financial burden on an already strained National Health Service due to smoking-related illnesses amounts to billions of pounds annually. It is clear that smoking restrictions are necessary to address this major public health issue, despite any opposition from libertarians or the tobacco industry.